A bill to amend section 5052 and 5232 of title 10, United States Code, relating to the appointment to the grades of general and lieutenant general of Marine Corps officers designated for appropriate higher commands or for performance of duties of great importance and responsibility.

Provides for the appointment of an Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, from officers on the active list of the Marine Corps.

Provides that the Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps shall have such authority and duties with respect to the Marine Corps as the Commandant of the Marine Corps, with the approval of the Secretary of the Navy, may delegate or prescribe for him. Provides that orders issued by the Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps in performing such duties shall have the same effect as those issued by the Commandant of the Marine Corps.

Requires that when there is a vacancy in the office of the Commandant of the Marine Corps, or during the absence or disability of the Commandant of the Marine Corps, the Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps and then the officers of the Marine Corps on duty at Headquarters, Marine Corps, in order of seniority, unless otherwise directed by the President, shall perform the duties of the Commandant until a successor is appointed or the absence or disability ceases.